P.A.D. (Peripheral Artery Disease) is a serious condition caused by a
problem with poor circulation in the legs. The arteries in your legs can
begin to narrow from plaque — a buildup of cholesterol and other materials — and
restrict the flow of oxygen-rich blood. Sometimes the plaque can rupture. And this
can cause microscopic particles in the blood, called platelets, to stick together,
forming clots on the damaged area.
If this is happening in your legs, it could also mean poor circulation in the arteries in
your heart or brain as well, which may result in a heart attack or stroke. In fact,
nearly 60% of P.A.D. patients have blockages in the arteries of the heart or brain, as
well as their legs.
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or treatment.
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